The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
